Enjoy Your New Countertop - An Introduction Into Granite Countertops

People choose granite countertops for a variety of reasons. They are a testament to the elegance and strength of nature. Simply put, there is no material, natural or synthetic, that so perfectly combines the qualities of durability and beauty. Granite is an igneous rock, naturally occurring, formed over millions of years from magma. It has been used in the production of many ancient buildings and monuments as far back as the Egyptian pyramid of Giza in the 26th Century BC - and it still performs its function. Granite countertops are incredibly popular lately in kitchen remodels, but they are not a trend. In addition to its considerable aesthetic advantages over other countertop materials, granite is chosen for its performance and is an investment in your house that will never depreciate.

Feel a finished granite countertop to see the difference in quality. It's smooth and cool to the touch. You can feel how solid and resistant it is to damage. Granite countertops are strong and durable enough to withstand all the abuse and mishaps that a kitchen can throw its way while still coming out looking the same way it did five years ago. A properly sealed granite countertop will never become discolored or lose its original sparkle. It's a dynamic surface that reacts differently to sources and types of light, giving off an impression of vivacity no matter how old it is. Simultaneously it gives off an appearance of strength, - you can see how solid and heavy the material is with a single glance. Yet granite never appears ostentatious.

Buying a granite countertop for your kitchen remodeling project is also buying a piece of history. Each stone is unique in its appearance, with a rainbow of colors and endless crystal patterns available. No two granite stones have the same mineral composition just like no two snowflakes are alike. Synthetic countertops depreciate with time not just because they are less sturdy, but because they go out of style as new colors, designs, and materials are created and mass-produced. Granite has been around as long as civilization and is recognized as a superior material, meaning that it will never lose value as long as it's taken care of.

As a kitchen countertop material, granite does things that others cannot. It's resistant to great heat, so hot pots and pans will not damage the stone. Knives won't cut it and acidic liquids won't soak into the stone unless they are left for a long time. It's naturally resistant to bacteria. If ordered as a slab there are no seams for dust or food particles to build up in over time. The surface is incredibly easy to clean with water or stone cleaner and a rag or sponge. Preparing food or eating off of the surface is an enjoyable experience in itself, as you can feel the strength of the stone under the stress of the kitchen.

With a little bit of maintenance, including properly sealing the granite countertop and not allowing spills to seep into the stone, granite will look like-new for the rest of your life. It's an impressive centerpiece to any kitchen remodel for both its usefulness and striking appearance. The myriad patterns and colors available can fit into any decorating scheme because of the classical beauty it holds. There's not just one reason granite is the number one choice among kitchen remodelers - it's the combination of functionality, durability, and looks.